McShay on this drafts QBs

[Dave Lane]

Big names atop the quarterback class
Todd McShayScouts Inc.April 26, 2011
When evaluating quarterbacks, it is important to consider all aspects of their games -- intangibles, mental makeup, accuracy, release, arm strength and mobility. With our 2011 draft board finalized, here's how we rank the top quarterbacks in each of those skill sets, as well as our rankings of all quarterback prospects with draftable grades:

Toughness/leadership Lives to compete. A natural leader who is cool under pressure. Wants the ball in his hands when the game is on the line. Tireless worker on and off the field. Displays outstanding mental and physical toughness.

1. Christian Ponder, Florida State

2. Jake Locker, Washington

3. Andy Dalton, TCU

Intelligence/decision-making It begins with pre-snap reads, which includes blitz pickup, coverage recognition and possible audibles at the line of scrimmage. It extends to reads on drops, including coverage recognition, avoiding throws into double coverage and getting the ball to open receivers. Deciding when to tuck the ball and run, take a sack or throw the ball away also factor into the equation.

1. Dalton

2. Greg McElroy, Alabama

3. Blaine Gabbert, Missouri

Accuracy

Sees passing windows develop quicker than most. Hits receivers in stride and changes velocity skillfully. Shows touch and timing.

1. Gabbert

2. Dalton

3. Ponder

Release

Throws with an efficient, consistent motion. Gets the ball out quickly. Is able to change launch points when necessary.

1. Cam Newton, Auburn

2. Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech

3. Ricky Stanzi, Iowa

Arm Strength Gets great RPMs on the ball. Shows the ability to fit the ball into tight spots downfield. Can throw deep sideline route with ease and can drive the deep ball through wind.

1. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas

2. Colin Kaepernick, Nevada

3. Newton

Pocket mobility

Displays a presence within the pocket. Is able to consistently sidestep the rush and get himself out of trouble with his feet.

1. Ponder

2. Stanzi

3. Newton

The following is a graphic representation of the number of quarterbacks selected in each round of the previous three NFL drafts. Most teams use this type of chart to study position trends when setting up their draft boards each year.

Todd McShay is the director of college football scouting for Scouts Inc. He has been evaluating prospects for the NFL draft since 1998. Scouts Inc.'s Steve Muench and Kevin Weidl also contributed to this report.

[Reerun_KC]

oh boy, this is going to be popcorn worthy...

[DaKCMan AP]

McShay is, IMO, the biggest moron of the so-called "draft experts" and I, therefore, disregard the opinions this clown produces.

[Dave Lane]

Originally Posted by DaKCMan AP

McShay is, IMO, the biggest moron of the so-called "draft experts" and I, therefore, disregard the opinions this clown produces.

Not that I care but specifically what do you disagree with in the article?

[Sofa King]

Sounds like we need to draft Andy Dalton.

[Chiefnj2]

How can you have Gabbert be #1 in accuracy?? Spread offense, lots of short throws and his completion % is poor. Especially 3rd down.

[Otter]

I don't know anything about this guy but his format of breaking down styles & strengths seriously sucks.

[DaKCMan AP]

Originally Posted by Dave Lane

Not that I care but specifically what do you disagree with in the article?

Newton should definitely be top-3 in leadership/toughness. He led his team to a NC and multiple come from behind wins all while dealing with more personal distractions and scrutiny than any other player.

Not sold on Gabbert's decision making. As much as I think he's garbage, might put McElroy #1 there.

Put Mallet at #3 for accuracy.

Disagree with his release rankings. I wouldn't have any of those 3 at the top. If Newton's release is so great why was he working on changing/improving it so much pre-combine? I'd have Mallet, Gabbert, and Ponder here.

[Saccopoo]

Ponder would be a very viable pick for this team at the #21 position.

I think that the guy would be balls in Haley's system.

Thought so last year, think it this year.

It's one of those perfect match scenarios, and it is going to really piss me off when they end up taking Muhammad Wilkerson with their pick and Ponder is still on the board.